Ncuti Gatwa, who will make his debut as the Fifteenth Doctor in the upcoming new series of Doctor Who, has revealed that he is feeling a mix of excitement and terror ahead of the series premiere on May 11. The first two episodes will be available on BBC iPlayer at midnight before airing on BBC One later in the day. The actor, who first appeared as the Time Lord in a special episode last Christmas, expressed his readiness for the world to see the new series while acknowledging the nerves that come with such a significant role.
In the new season, Ncuti Gatwa will be joined by Millie Gibson as Ruby Sunday as they travel through time and space on various adventures, including visits to unknown lands, the Regency era in England, outer space worlds, and the sixties. Ncuti will be the first queer Doctor Who and the first black Time Lord to lead a full series. He emphasized the importance of representing diversity in such a prominent role and the fact that the Doctor, as an alien, can embody various identities. Showrunner Russell T Davies also supported this decision, highlighting that the Doctor’s character has always been open to change and different interpretations.
The upcoming series will also delve into the Doctor’s unique character traits, with Ncuti’s portrayal expected to bring a sense of lightness and joy that resonates with queer energy. While the story may not be solely driven by these aspects, viewers can look forward to moments exploring them. Ncuti’s first appearance as The Doctor was in a special 60th Anniversary episode last December, where he teamed up with David Tennant’s Fourteenth Doctor to defeat the Toymaker. As he prepared for the role, Ncuti aimed to bring his authentic self and his black identity to the character, adding depth to the Doctor’s rich history and emotional complexity.
In his interview with Variety, Ncuti Gatwa discussed the significance of his casting as a black actor in the role of The Doctor, acknowledging the importance of representation and diversity in the long-running series. He emphasized that anyone who objects to a non-straight white man playing the character may not truly understand the essence of Doctor Who, which is all about change and regeneration. With his portrayal, Ncuti aims to add a unique layer to the character, drawing from his own experiences and identity as a black man.
As the release date for the new series approaches, anticipation is building among fans of Doctor Who to see how Ncuti Gatwa will bring his interpretation of the iconic character to life. With a mix of excitement and nerves, the actor is prepared to step into the TARDIS and take audiences on a thrilling journey through time and space. As the first black and queer Doctor, Ncuti’s portrayal promises to be a refreshing and inclusive addition to the iconic role, continuing the show’s legacy of embracing diversity and representation. With a blend of adventure, emotion, and authenticity, Ncuti Gatwa is set to make his mark on the beloved sci-fi series when the new season premieres.
